Lithium deposits

Lithium deposits

Part of: Prelims and GS-II – International relations and GS-III – Mineral exploration

Context Chinese companies have begun “on-site inspections” of possible projects to tap lithium deposits in Afghanistan.

• Afghanistan also has significant reserves of copper, gold, gemstones, beryllium, iron ore, marble, oil & gas, and rare earth elements.
• Recent estimates suggest the worth of untapped minerals could be as high as $3 trillion.

About Lithium

• A 2010 US study revealed that Afghanistan could have among the world’s largest deposits of lithium.
• Lithium is considered key to global agenda of switching to electric vehicles
• Uses: Rechargeable batteries 
  • ceramics and glass
  • Lubricating greases 
  • Polymer production 
• Lithium consumption for batteries has increased significantly in recent years
• The world has an identified lithium reserves of 80 million tonnes.
• Countries with Highest deposits: Bolivia, Argentina, Chile and USA.